Nestled between bustling Pentagon City and leafy Crystal City, Aurora Highlands is one of Arlington, Virginia’s most beloved and storied neighborhoods. To stroll its tree-lined streets or sit in one of its historic parks is to step into a vibrant tapestry woven with community pride, architectural beauty, and layers of local heritage. As a longtime resident, I can tell you: Aurora Highlands doesn’t just have history — it lives and breathes it.
The Early Days: Origins of Aurora Highlands
The roots of Aurora Highlands reach back to the turn of the 20th century, at a time when Arlington County was still mostly rural. The neighborhood’s development began in the early 1900s, spurred by the expansion of streetcar lines and the promise of suburban living within easy reach of Washington, D.C. Its proximity to the capital and to major roadways made it an ideal spot for residential growth.
The name "Aurora Highlands" was first adopted in the 1920s, reflecting both the neighborhood’s slightly elevated ridgelines and the classical charm of “Aurora,” the Roman goddess of dawn — perhaps a poetic nod to the beginnings of a new suburban era. Originally, Aurora Highlands was platted as three adjoining subdivisions: Addison Heights, Aurora Hills, and Virginia Highlands. Over time, these merged, and the broader area came to be known collectively as Aurora Highlands.
Key Historical Milestones
The Arrival of Addison Road and the Streetcar Era
Addison Road (now South 23rd Street) was an early defining feature of the neighborhood, serving as a main artery and attracting developers eager to build homes for Washington’s growing workforce. Soon after, streetcar lines made it possible for government workers and their families to enclave themselves in Aurora Highlands while commuting to the city with ease.
World War II and the Pentagon Boom
Perhaps the most transformative event for Aurora Highlands occurred during World War II, with the construction of the Pentagon and the rapid expansion of nearby military facilities. The area experienced a population surge, with military families and defense workers flocking to the neighborhood. This era saw the construction of many of the brick Colonial homes, Cape Cods, and bungalows that still define its streetscape today.
Civil Rights and Community Strength
Aurora Highlands also played a quiet yet essential role in the region’s social progress. In the mid-20th century, as Arlington County challenged de facto segregation, the neighborhood’s schools—including the historic Hoffman-Boston School—became centers for community engagement and equality. Families worked together to foster a sense of inclusion that continues to underpin neighborhood life.
Streets, Parks, and Notable Landmarks
One of the joys of Aurora Highlands is its mix of old and new, where legacy structures blend seamlessly with vibrant modern additions.
- South 23rd Street and South Joyce Street: These streets anchor the neighborhood and are home to some of Arlington’s oldest houses. The Craftsman bungalows and classic Colonials here tell the story of the area’s evolving architecture.
- Hume School: Built in 1891 and perched on a hill at 1805 South Arlington Ridge Road, the Hume School is now home to the Arlington Historical Society and serves as the oldest continuously operated school building in the county. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s a beacon for anyone interested in local history.
- Aurora Highlands Park: This green heart of the neighborhood, located on South 15th Street, has long been a gathering place for picnics, little league games, and neighborhood festivals. Its shaded playground and open fields have witnessed generations of laughter and community bonding.
- Virginia Highlands Park: Adjacent to Pentagon City, this sprawling recreational complex with ballfields, playgrounds, and tennis courts reflects more recent growth and is beloved by families and athletes alike.
An Evolving Community
Despite its deep historic roots, Aurora Highlands has never stood still. The post-war years brought a wave of suburbanization, while the late 20th and early 21st centuries saw new apartment complexes and townhouses arrive to meet Arlington’s growing demand for housing. The emergence of Pentagon City and nearby Crystal City as major commercial and residential hubs has had a profound impact as well.
Modern Aurora Highlands is celebrated for its diversity, walkability, and sense of inclusion. Residents from all backgrounds call its leafy streets home, drawn by a spirit of neighborliness that transcends the hustle and bustle of metro life. The neighborhood’s civic association is one of the most active in Arlington, working tirelessly to preserve green spaces, celebrate local heritage, and ensure a high quality of life for everyone.
What Makes Aurora Highlands Special
Ask any resident, and they’ll quickly tell you why Aurora Highlands stands out among Arlington neighborhoods:
- A Welcoming Atmosphere: Newcomers are greeted with open arms, and block parties, book clubs, and gardening groups keep the social fabric strong.
- Architectural Diversity: The streets are a living museum, showcasing styles from Queen Anne to Mid-Century Modern, all shaded by mature oaks and maples.
- Historic Landmarks: From the Hume School to century-old churches and schools, pieces of the past are lovingly maintained and still in use.
- Access and Location: With Metro stops at Pentagon City and Crystal City, plus direct access to parks and trails, it’s easy to enjoy the best of both city and suburb.
Looking Ahead
While new developments and shifting trends keep Aurora Highlands looking forward, its heart remains tied to the values that shaped it: community, heritage, and simple everyday joys. As Arlington continues to grow and change, Aurora Highlands endures as both a testament to history and a vibrant, welcoming home.
So next time you find yourself strolling under the canopy of old oaks along South Joyce Street or pausing at the steps of the Hume School, remember: in Aurora Highlands, every street has a story, and everyone is invited to be a part of it.